Health Officials Investigate New Measles Exposure at Madison Hotel

Measles cases rise in Wisconsin, highlighting importance of vaccination

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Public health officials in Madison, Wisconsin, are investigating a new measles exposure at the Holiday Inn Express on High Crossing Boulevard. This incident, confirmed on February 14, 2026, is unrelated to a previously reported case at UW-Madison, signaling a potential increase in measles activity within the state. The exposure occurred between 12:01 a.m. and noon on February 6th, and involves an out-of-state traveler who tested positive after their stay.

Why it matters

This case is part of a concerning national trend, as the U.S. has seen over 910 measles cases reported as of February 2026, marking a significant resurgence after the country was considered free of endemic measles for a quarter of a century. Wisconsin has now confirmed four cases this year alone, underscoring the ease with which the virus can be reintroduced from other parts of the world and the importance of vaccination for both personal protection and community immunity.

The details

The recent cases in Wisconsin appear linked to international travel and travel through Phoenix, highlighting the ease with which the virus can be reintroduced. Public Health Madison & Dane County is actively contacting known individuals who may have been exposed, but a complete list of potential contacts is unavailable. Individuals born in 1957 or later who are unvaccinated or lack laboratory evidence of having had measles are considered unprotected and should quarantine if exposed.

  • The exposure occurred between 12:01 a.m. and noon on February 6, 2026.
  • Symptoms could initiate to develop between February 13 and February 27, 2026.

The players

Public Health Madison & Dane County

The local public health department investigating the measles exposure and contacting potentially exposed individuals.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The national public health institute that provides information and guidance on measles and other infectious diseases.

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What’s next

Public Health Madison & Dane County encourages anyone with questions about potential exposure to reach out via email or phone. The agency is actively working to identify and notify all individuals who may have been exposed at the Holiday Inn Express.

The takeaway

This measles exposure highlights the ongoing need for vaccination and public health monitoring, especially as the virus can be easily reintroduced from other parts of the world. Maintaining high vaccination rates and quickly responding to potential outbreaks are crucial to protecting communities and preventing the further spread of this highly contagious disease.